Queensland, the second-largest and third-most populous Australian state, has decided to introduce new casino laws which include stricter casino oversight and more severe penalties for breaking the rules.
The decision comes after other states in Australia have implemented tougher legislation recently following inquiries into the activity of Crown Resorts in New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia, and into the wrongdoings of Star Entertainment Group in New South Wales.
The new legislation will allow the implementation of independent monitors which can oversee casino operations. Moreover, the government will no longer have to compensate casino operators for the introduction of tougher regulations. The Queensland government will also be able to fine operators up to 100 million Australian dollars if they are found breaking the rules. Other new laws include an obligation for casinos to report breaches of the law and cooperate with the regulator or face significant penalties.